Why I Switched From Android To BlackBerry

While
it's a growing trend that people switch from using BlackBerry to
Android, I've done the opposite. Yes, I've switched from using
Android to using BlackBerry. There are a few reasons why I made the
decision to switch but in the end, I am very happy I made the switch
and I'll outline the reasons why. If you are like me, you want to get
work done. We have different definitions of work and to me it
ultimately means making money. If you think about it, when we use our
smart phones, it is either for entertainment or to get work done. By
work, I needed excellent email support and an efficient platform to
work on. BlackBerry meets my needs.

Before
I go into how much I like BlackBerry, I'll share my unbias Android
experience with you. My first smart phone was an Android powered
device. The MyTouch 3G. It was a good phone but I suppose it would
be, compared to the "dumb phones" I was using prior. This
was my first taste of Android and I was thoroughly impressed with
Google's smart phone platform. Using the MyTouch, I quickly missed
typing on a physical keyboard. The Samsung Moment was my next
smartphone and it satisfied me for a good while.

With
my new Android powered smartphone with a physical keyboard, I was now
able to text and type much faster than my MyTouch. The lack of a
physical keyboard only blocked something I should've seen in the
platform from the beginning. Lack of direction.

There are a few big differences between BlackBerry and Android. Android is a toy and BlackBerry is a phone. From the home screen, it is very easy to make a phone call from the BlackBerry. You can quickly find a contact by simply typing the person's name. If you want to make a phone call and you'd rather type out the number, then simply hit the call button once and start dialing. Dialing is fast. What's the big deal? Android can make phone calls also. Yes this is true. Of course you can make phone calls with Android also but in my opinion, making calls on Android feels like a chore. In order to make calls on Android, hitting the call button opens up the dialer. Some fully touch screen Android devices will require you to hit an icon on the screen rather than a button. This is where things start to differ. On Android, it always feels like the phone is always shuffling apps. Opening the dialer to make a phone call feels like the phone is opening an app while it feels like the dialer is built into a BlackBerry. Hitting the dialer on the BlackBerry will instantly bring it up but I've noticed some lag when I do this on Android. There is never lag on the BlackBerry when making a phone call. As we speak, I am writing this article on my BlackBerry and when I hit the call button, the dialer and call log is available in an instant. This reassures me that BlackBerry is a phone first and a toy second.

Integration

Another thing that I quickly fell in love with on the BlackBerry is it's integration. Email, sms, instant mesaging, media and apps are integrated virtually seamlessly. This is convenient. If I wanted to send a file to a friend via email, all I have to do is navigate to the file, hit menu and the option to send via email is right there. This differs in Android. I do have to admit that most of google's services had good integration but it doesn't compare. If I wanted to send a file on Android, I would have to browse the file but some file explorers have conflicts since they are third party apps. Not to mention the constant conflict of choosing a default app to run things and each of these apps constantly fighting for permisson each time you open them. Integration of apps is good for google products like gmail, gtalk, google contacts, google maps, etc but it is terrible for other third party apps. This becomes more apparent when you hit the menu button for each app. In order to do something, you usually have to hit menu then settings just to get started. The menu button on the BlackBerry is very uniform from one app to another. This makes it much easier to learn.

"Everything visually is nicer on Android"

I have to say, Android is much prettier than BlackBerry. Everything visually is nicer on Android. The touch screen experience is great and should be tried at least once but with the glitter come with it frustration. Mis-clicks happen often. The visual stimulation comes with a price and you pay for it in battery life. Not to mention, the best way to experience Android is the wonderful widgets it supports but these widgets always run in the background. For me, the touch screen got old fast and the battery life on all the Android devices I've tried were pitiful.

Since Android is a smart phone platform many phone can choose to use, it becomes their jobs to make it run as fast and as efficiently as possible. This has not always been the case and while it is not Android fault per se, phone manufacturers are forced to run software that their hardware cannot handle, or is not compatible with. Much of this problem can be seen evident on the comments section of each app. While G1 user have problems with a certain app, Droid users will experience no headaches. This means that the user eventually feels disappointment's when they read about a cool app that doesn't work on their phone but will run flawlessly on another device.

This
brings me to another issue about Android. The dreaded "force
closed" or FC which is getting the same hostility back when
certain computers "crash". This happens often and is very
annoying. It seems to be a developer's issue and varies from phone to
phone on an app by app basis.

Ever
since getting my BlackBerry, I've never had a problem with an app
force closing granted I've only managed to used only a handful of
third party apps. I suspect one of the main reasons why this is so
plaguing on Android is the lack of standardization. There are many
different versions of Android and on top of the different versions,
some manufacturers put their own skin on top of Android. For example,
HTC has SenseUI, Motorola has Motoblur, and Samsung has Touchwiz.
While this gives phone manufacturers the freedom to expand and
improve Android, the developers have to play catch up and find a way
for their apps to work for vanilla Android 1.6 to SenseUI Android
2.1. This lack of standardization has caused lots of apps to become
unstable. You constantly read on the reviews that the app works for
the Droid but doesn't on the G1. This problem is not uncommon and only
leaves a bad experience for the user.

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The Grass Isn't Always Greener

Android is a great platform for smart phones and it is visually appealing. Android has a strong user base and it is easy to see why many people like it. For me, I need a smart phone that can last an entire day without having to recharge my batteries. I also needed a phone that just works with minimum hassle. The BlackBerry is perfect for my needs. It's clear that Android is aiming to appeal to the consumer market. For people that need to get work done, I believe BlackBerry is a better choice.

Update:

There's lots of people that disagree with me and that's fine. You can use any phone you choose. Don't take this article as a personal attack. Both platforms will continue to grow and change. Android has evolved into the tablet market and it's flaws are even more apparent. The cluttered UI breaks the design on nearly all the tablets I've tried. On the other hand, RIM has built(bought) their tablet OS and started fresh from the ground up. I switched to BlackBerry because I can't stand Android. It doesn't work for me. I still don't think BlackBerry is perfect but for now, it's my favorite phone.

Comments

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sending

bacardimetz

5 years agofrom Palma de Mallorca

Hi again, Set's All Set:-)

I need a new phone and I'm thinking of the Z10, as android does not convince me 100%. The Z10 has now an accessible price, although I would go for the Q10 or Z30 if in an similar price range. What do you think?

I'll decide on the end, but would like your feedback on this device. Thanks!

Bryan

5 years ago

Oh - and I forgot to mention - when my workplace transitioned to iPhone 5 "across the board"...I tried one for 2 weeks, but found the need to go through the "Good For Enterprise" security interface SO FRUSTRATING! // During a break from a meeting, I could power up my BB and be reading e-mail in under 30 seconds. The iPhone5 with GFE took easily twice that long, and required numerous propmpt / inputs to navigate to the e-mail / calendar. // As I mentioned -- I'm now using my BB Torch (I returned the iPhone5, asked for my BB back, and caused quite a stir in the process). I cringe to think about the back-lash when a data spill drives IT to ask for all the iPhones back rather than executing a remote wipe (as is supported by BB)...

Bryan

5 years ago

Have a BB Torch for work, and a Samsung Galaxy Note 3 for personal. No comparison -- I reach for the BB every time when I need to conduct phone, text or e-mail exchanges, and it's also my calendar manager. The GN3 is a fun device, but I can't achieve the error-free typing rate I've become accustomed to with BB on the GN3 touch-screen keyboard. Agree with the author's comments about phone integration on Android (feels like a clunky app), and even with the GN3's superior battery life - it can't hold a candle to my BB Torch (under similar use conditions). I've spent a year researching apps for Androrid, and I've become more and more concerned about how much access is granted to my personal information (I'd offer that every app should install with a default set to NO access to location, address book, or other information and each feature of that kind should require a positive action by the user) // I'm seriously considering a BB Q10 for personal use, while retaining the GN3 as a mini-tablet for use on wi-fi (only) as it is perfectly acceptable as a movie / music / web-surf / camera and recreation (gaming) device. Another perk of a BB is that my kids won't have any interest in it (small screen, fewer games, and a 'wow factor' that only the task-oriented adult can appreciate. -- Sincerely hope that BB remains a viable hardware provider for those with a need for efficiency and elegance in a utilitarian mobile device. As for security - I'm not quite ready to go back to synching my Palm Pilot to the computer via RS232...but I'm not ready to press the "I believe button" on the cloud just yet either. During this transitional decade, I feel more comfortable with BB for information security....

Lockon

5 years ago

I just moved from Blackberry to Android and I could not agree more! Android is a toy and Blackberry is a serious tool. I miss so many of the basic features that BB had: true global search, unread mail counts on the mailbox icons, built-in enterprise contact search, clickable phone numbers in web pages and emails, ability to forward SMS to email, etc, etc, etc.

Sure you can hack this stuff into Android but who has the time and then even if you do find an app it behaves in its own way.

I have had the Android for close to a month and I'm still struggling to get the functionality that the BB had built in... but, given the current situation with BB, I'm not sure there is any other choice (and, no, Apple isn't even an option for me for religious reasons).

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

5 years agofrom New England

some people have said that the unlocks STA-05 version of the z30 works on t-mobile. They would buy this version from a canadian retailer like Telus and apparently, it works on tmobile's LTE. I haven't tried it myself and I do like the Z30.

Ryan

5 years ago

I was considering the Z10 but just kept my old Samsung Infuse for financial reasons. Now I'm in a better place financially and see the Z30 is coming out. Unfortunately, I'm on TMobile and have no interest of changing to Verizon.

I agree with everything you said. My first "smartphone" was the original "blueberry" with scroll wheel, keyboard, b&w screen. Then after I returned from overseas for two years, I got this Samsung Infuse. Its been a big pain. Swype is nice but not as good as anything BB has put out, the battery life has been abysmal, support dropped as soon as new phones came out, and almost everything causes it to crash.

I'd really like to get a Z30 if it comes out to TMobile, one of the things that stopped me on the Z10 was the camera which is important. The Z30 isn't the best but its HD and good enough for me.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

5 years agofrom New England

Sorry for the VERY late reply Perry. I currently have the Q10! I've played around with the new iPhone and I don't like it very much. The Q10 is a solid device. BB10 is a refreshing change and although not perfect, it is an excellent new platform. I wrote a review and did a video review on the Q10.

I dunno if you still watch this page Set, but I am still on the Galaxy S2. The Q10 has arrived. I just wanted to know if you are planning to switch? I once more face the dilemma of investing in the Q10 or the iPhone.......

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

6 years agofrom New England

Adrian,

Justin Bieber is a success. Doesn't mean I'll buy his CDs...

adrian

6 years ago

you people do realize bb is failing ....

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

6 years agofrom New England

BTW Perry,

I've very honored and grateful that my article help you made your phone-buying decision.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

6 years agofrom New England

Perry,

Sorry for the late reply. I currently have the Bold 9900 and it's a solid device but battery life is a bit poor. I've upgraded to Seidio extended battery and it's a "business"- class phone now with good ruggedness. If I were you, I'd wait for the new Q10. Rumor has it that the Q10 will have a bit larger battery than the Z10. Also, Evernote syncing will be built into the OS. As far as Dropbox, the developer of Files And Folders(app) will most likely port over their BB PlayBook app to the BB10 ecosystem and it is by far the BEST file manager I've tested on any mobile platform. It supports Dropbox, sugarsync, box, Google docs, and bridge connection. As far as battery life, from what I've read about the Z10, testers have gone a full day's usage with the 1250 mAh battery so perhaps the smaller screen of the Q10 may go a bit longer. Today, a day's usage is pretty standard when it comes to battery life.

BTW, my friend has the Galaxy S2 and he has problems with charging and is waiting for the Z10 before jumping ship.

Perry

6 years ago

Sets all Set, a year ago, it was solely on the basis of your article that I bought the the new, Blackberry Curve 9360, my first BB.. From Day One, I fell in love with how easy it was to use as compared to touch phones. It basically became a part of me.. Then the unthinkable happened. In September last year, my BB was stolen and I made the mistake of buying a Galaxy S2. While i love the great screen and some apps, there is always lag, even when opening the dialler. I fail to understand why a dual core phone with 1.2Ghz power can't speed past my BB curve with an 800MHz processor. I have rooted my phone and I have the latest Jelly Bean installed and still the same laggy performance.

I desperately want to get back to BB. My question to you set, is whether I should wait for BB Q10 (because i still need a keyboard) or go for the older devices? Bold 9900 or 9780 or some such? I honestly dont care about apps so long as I have evernote and dropbox. I also want your opinion as to whether OS 6 has better battery life... Thank you for writing this article. And i hope you reply..

Kopet

6 years ago

You don't know nothing about Android

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

6 years agofrom New England

Ziegler, You are right that the new 9900 has poor battery life. I have it and the stock battery can last a day with slightly moderate usage. I am a power user so I got the seidio extended battery but the point still remains. The flagship 9900 was more catered to the new age of consumers who value style and looks over function. Think macbook air over thinkpads.

To this day, I haven't found an iPhone or Droid that handles emails like my BB. And I'm not talking about crappy Gmails that google reads over. I'm talking about personal email account synced with my over domain host. I have 6 email accounts on my BB that works flawlessly.

As far as the future, the z10 and x10 looks promising and will definitely be my future device.

smtpaul

6 years ago

Believe me or not I read all the comments in this page and found it very useful... Thanx Set's All Set....

I have been using and Galaxy Ace from nearly last 1.5 years now and want to change to bb and was really worried about the consequences thereof...

I was worried that people might call me outdated but the points mentioned in the article really concreted the idea...

What is the use of a smart phone if its not smart (not even a phone after a year) and takes a minute to connect a call....

And I just don't want to start posting about the update and advertisement issues...or else this post will take half a page....

No doubt android is a highly customizable os but as they say "with power comes responsibility"...hence you will be responsible for the lags and slowdowns of your handset once your internal memory gets junked up no matter if you have a 128gb memory stick implanted...

This is a formal advise "BUSINESS USER DON'T GO FOR ANDROID IF YOU ARE PLANNING LONG RUN "

Can any1 suggest me a good curve handset....

Shubham Audichya

6 years ago

Hello! I have a Blackberry 9360 and a Samsung Galaxy Note-GT-N7000, I agree here completely with the above points stated that BB is amazing when it comes to Sync, it is the boss, I'm not being biased or anything,

What I really dislike about the Blackberry is that RIM isn't concentrating on VOIP in Blackberry, like in IOS and Android, one can make free calls using numerous applications, Skype, Viber, Tango, Line, Nimbuzz, and the list goes on!! But on Blackberry?? None, this is that I do not like about the BB, else it is a perfect phone.

And even now BBM7 comes with Voice calls, and it is in its alpha state, lets hope for the best! I'm a BB lover and will be always one!!

Which Blackberry are you using??

Cheers for Blackberry!

Ziegler

6 years ago

Chris, you mentioned that Battery life is cruital for you, but I've heard around - that 9900 has poorer battery life worse than android phones.

What is your experience - poor battery is the only thing which is delaying me to get BB 9900

jhwilen

6 years ago

I have a Blackberry Style. I love my Blackberry. My wife has an Android phone. I do agree that the Android platform is more like a toy. I hope that RIM can turn around with OS 10. I am due for an upgrade in a few months. I have read good things about the new Blackberry OS 10 and from what I've seen it looks like it may give not only Android a challenge, but iphone as well.

I will waiting and see what happens with the new phone Blackberry is called z10 and other newer Blackberry's. I don't want to go Android if I don't have to.

JH

6 years ago

I have a Blackberry Style and my wife has an Android phone. I am waiting to see what Blackberry does with 10 OS and the new Z10 including others on the way. I really don't want to go to an Android platform. I do agree, Android phones are more-less toys.

Lagos style

6 years ago

I just got a samsung GT S5300 android after my BB was stolen. I really regret buying the samsung and agree with the article writer about the android being a toy. I miss my BB so much I could cry. The android is buggy and difficult to use. I cannot even forward a previous text message from the samsung android phone. If you need a serious phone, please buy a BB and nothing else. All these fancy android phones are just gimmicks and toys.

george

6 years ago

windows phone - the win.

mention that windows MOBILE is useless as well as android,bbos & ios

symbian is also great platform because full c++ support but stoped developing

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

6 years agofrom New England

thank you Omer Barlas!

A friend of mine's has the Galaxy Nexus and he i really wants to come back to BB. He has those same problem plus more! There is a major flaw with the battery that you have to reboot sometimes just to get it to charge! Google pretty much ignored this issue and the support mantra on Androids seem to fall in line with, "Get a newer phone..." Nice....

I'm surprised you left your 9900. I just got mine and it's amazing! The grass isn't always greener on the other side. Who knows, if you signed a contract, maybe you'd want to wait for bb10 phones to come out later next year.

Omer Barlas

6 years ago

I forgot to mention something. When your battery is about to die, BB disconnects everything automagically and does not turn them on unless you recharge. This is a marvelous feature, because you know that your phone and address book is available to you at least for another 3 to 6 hour range. If you can access even a public phone you are still good to go.

Omer Barlas

6 years ago

Hi;

I am a businessman and an ex BB 9000 user. I am a dedicated Linux user, and since I thought Linux is so powerful and easy to manage, I jumped on the Android train when Samsung released its first Galaxy S, and the nightmare began.

First of all call and phonebook management sucks, it really does. You cannot record people's company names on Android's phonebook, yes you can write it down, there's a line for it, but when they call you can't see it on the screen, so you actually answer the phone blind folded. You can't even see it when you are looking at the phonebook, you have to see the detailed view of the phonebook entry and it displays company name somewhere down there. Call management also sucks, in the call log I have to see everybody many times because I called them back, they called me back, etc. It's literally floods the call log view. Why should I care about redials and etc? On BB it's recorded under a single name, you click it and every detail shows up on its own separate view.

The messaging, oh it sucks big time. Try forwarding an SMS to someone, please do. If you type an email to the recipients list, it just converts it into an MMS, and sends it like that. The only option is that you have to use the "share" button to send through GMail or any other mail client. Have I also mentioned that you cannot see SMS and emails on the same view?

There is NO integration between applications in Android, it just doesn't. Let's take Twitter for instance, try copying some text from a tweet. Were you successful? I didn't think so. On BB you can copy whatever text there is on the screen, with no hassle.

I think that Android stands just in the middle of a business and an entertainment phone, but sucks at both of them since it does not succeed in either of them. Fragmentation is another problem with Android, also. Samsung releases a new firmware for S3, so f.ck you S1 and S2 users, we don't give a f.ck for your updates, get the latest phone from us. You go to xda-developers for an updated ROM, but hey there's a surprise for you, your phone has some different features that your service provider has asked from us (NFC, physical radio, etc) so our newest ROM is not compatible with your phone, your extra features are not going to work, also your current hardware (GPS, GSM levels, wireless levels) might not work!

If you want to compare two "phones", please consider comparing iPhone and BB, because iPhone has a solid support for its products. If there is an update, it delivers. Since there is no fragmentation in product range and since there is a single producer, every update works (please let's not fight over ios6 updates, it's another discussion subject, my wife's iphone4 works perfectly with ios6). The integration within the iPhone is not that great also, but it is deeply integrated with Mac computers. Ask someone who uses a Mac and an iPhone, and they will tell you how integration between devices should be.

I miss my BB very much, and I think my next "phone" will be a BB, again. If you need something to use for social media and other needs, please go and buy whatever tablet you want for yourself, but if it is a phone that you need, please keep away from Android.

jhwilen

7 years ago

I have a Blackberry Style (Flip) and my wife has a Samsung Galaxy II. The more I use her phone, the more it feels like, well a toy, with a bunch of useless apps and games I don't even care to play. My kids would disagree. My wife really likes her Samsung Galaxy II. I am due to upgrade soon, so I have been exploring and looking. The more I 'play' with an Android phone and attempt to send and read email, the more I am leaning toward the Blackberry Bold. Blackberry is my choice.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

hey Joyce, the link is in my profile page. I really don't want to "spam" my other venture. Hubpages have been pretty uptight with all these new rules they're imposing on us :(

Joyce Set

7 years ago

Hi Set's All Set, I really love ur loyal support for BB. Its so encouraging. I happen to be a proud user of BB too. BB for life! Culd u pls send me d link of ur new website? Wuld so love it. Thankx

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

EHR, what do you mean traveling and losing support? I don't quite understand what that means? Do you mean losing BIS?

@Adam, I will go to WP7 if RIM goes under. And BTW, Whether or not the company goes under is irrelevant. This article was meant to highlight what I don't like about Android. Not how much money RIM has.

EHR

7 years ago

Your story about replace Android and Blackberry was very nice.

But, I should to say, in blackberry you have a lot of restrictions.

Imagine, you are businessman and you are traveling many counties and one of them Blackberry has not support there.

What you have to do? what is your plan when you are in very bad situation. while in IOS, Win Phone and android you can set many email app without any data plan through GPRS and no need a swat operation. that is why i shoot my blackberry to away even I loved it. and I think that is why now blackberry is losing many of their clients. of course, i have android.

Adam

7 years ago

You all will most likely be switching to Android or IOS once RIMM goes out of business. Which at this rate seems very likely very fast.

Well I'm an avid Blackberry User and have been for 4 years.I love the blackberry its great for emails quickly send & receive in good clear text & now with the playbook attached it is even better.The Documents to go package is an added bonus enabling access to documents spreadsheets Pdf.The Camera comes up trumps quick & easy to Use.send via bluetooth or over the net.This device has a great set of Wi Fi tools useful for setting up wi fi networks & diagnoses.

The range of APPS available have meet my expectations I use a basic Invoicing system and Task Time tracking system allows one to keep track of job times and materials used.You wont see me changing to Android

Jenn

7 years ago

Recently my company switched phone providers and everyone decided we should move from VB to Androids. We are now on trial with the Samsung galaxy sOOn. Cool phone? Yes. Frustrating for work email (our main reason for the company footing the bill on our phones!!), absolutely! I can't file emails on outlook without scrolling through every single folder and sub folder. On bb I could just search for a folder or BB would know automatically. LED notification is missing. No indicators to show that emails have been replied to... The Android is fun for sure and I love Swype. But for work I find it is a silly choice and may be returning the Samsung and going back to bb. Although I am a bit nervous since the new BB's don't seem to be as comfortable in my hand as my old unit (bold 9700). :(

andy kent uk

7 years ago

i have gal s2 i so tempted to get bb but carphonewarehouse tell me i be loosing if i swap.i like android battery life a pain.force close a pain.only thing i worry about with bb is will i miss so many apps on android??

M. Santy

7 years ago

Have used BlackBerry since moving from Windows Mobile about 2004 and never looked back. My wife & daughter have been using Android devices for three years and have had nothing but problems - except when watching video / playing games & music. You hit it right on the head - tool ~vs~ toy.

Have had 2 curves, a Bold, and now a 9810 torch as well as the playbook. Perfect for work and never a problem. We'll see what happens when Android integrated to a Desktop environment and integrates all three device types - but for now I'm staying right where I am.

Bruno

7 years ago

I have tested every OS and have been tempted by Android in several occasions. Every time I went to Android (with each new Nexus), it took me a few months to switch back ton Blackberry. BB is robust, solid and never fails. No fragmentation which I hate.

I love the keyboard on BB. And everything works. Sync with Gmail is even better than Android as it's faster. Android is nice and I'll admit ICS is a big improvement but it's still has this amateur feeling. Plus, it sucks data and battery making it unusable without a charger around or wifi connection if you have limited data plan as we have around in Europe.

Pro and personal experience is completely integrated in BB whereas as Android is a compromise of everything and ends up being nothing.

Last but not least, my BB doesn't weight and fits in my pocket. That's enough for me.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Google is trying to monopolize their products. Google+, YouTube, Gmail, Android, WebM, WebP, Picassa, ect. I wrote a short editorial about it. Sticking to android, I find it disgusting that Google takes code from Linux and built android and their open handset alliance, but then when it comes to contributing back, they release a WINE(Windows Compatibility Layer) version of PicassaWeb for Linux. They can make all this money off of Linux but they can't a write native program for the market(people) that wrote the code? Take a read if you have some spare time.

Despite what I wrote above, I haven't ruled out Android completely for my next upgrade though I am leaning more towards WP7 if I leave BB. Google has pretty much lost control of Android and it shows with the many flavors. SenseUI, MotoBlur, TouchWiz, etc. WP7 seems to be doing a good thing protecting their brand by adding requirements for hardware manufacturers to obey in order to get the license. No more(or less) apps fragmentation. On Android, I hate the fact that I can't download an app or it's buggy on my phone just because I don't have the latest and greatest Ice Cream Frozen Yogurt Flan Cake or whatever the new sugary dessert is...

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Morgan,

Because your government passed a law to monitor BB doesn't mean the platform is not secure. That actually happens in many middle eastern countries too. That just shows you that your corrupt gov needs laws to force BB to give up their data in order for it to sell there. Ask yourself, "Why doesn't my gov make laws to force Android data?" Because they already have it. It's not secure.

If you are arguing screen real estate, I have no problems reading emails with my BB, even though I have a low res curve. And the Bold's screen PPI is ALMOST as dense as retina display. I get emails pushed from my servers to my phone, where as on my old android, I had to pull. I'm comparing email services because I got gmails pushed fine but other accounts took longer to get.

I don't "wait" for my phone to start as it is always on. The only time I turn it off is when I reboot the device.

You are being a bit naïve if you think Android is good without google services. BB is fine without BBM and BIS/BES doesn't pigeonhold you to use 1 email service. BIS/BES works with Gmail, Yahoo!, MSN/Live, your own IMAP/SMTP/Mailserver.

I will give you partial credit for unsigned APK's or third party store but there's still no excuse having malware IN Google Play(Formerly Android Market) which is what I was talking about.

My point about WP7 was not the lack of apps, or phones, or anything else. That is a red herring argument. My point about WP7 was to show you that while you may think your SenseUI is good, there are better UI out there regardless of it's popularity or market penetration.

Try the new curve it's at 800mhz. Bit faster but still seems to load forever on my colleagues phones. I don't know why you are comparing emails delivery speeds when it's push notifications on both OS's ( except all BB data goes through RIM servers somewhere in Europe ). Read an email on that beautiful 4 inch android screen and compare it to a cramped 2.4 inch screen where you can literally see the pixels.

Then try the stock keyboard on ICS , you do not actually need to hit one correct letter for it to predict your correct word, It reads through all previously used words and sentences and estimates which word is likely to follow the string of words before. I'm telling you now my auto-correct on the stock sense keyboard text predication then any BB I've ever used. This comes from a person living in South Africa where anybody will do anything for free (Cheap) internet so granted the most common phones here are BB's. Another thing do you type perfectly on you computer keyboard every time? no, you make mistakes, you proof read. I probably send about 1 mistake a week, the rest I would just choose the right word, Problem Solved.

Maybe there in US but our government just passed an act to monitor all BB's messages so we can't debate that. No doubt BB security is very good.

You as a business man would obviously know that time is money, think about how much time you spend waiting for your phone to start, waiting for an attachment to download (around 8-40kb/s in South Africa where my equally priced droid does 400Kb/s), waiting for an app to start or quite simply navigating somewhere ( android is direct access if its on screen, or a one button press and BB usually has to have a menu).

Well don't be tied down to Google services then, other then a device user account pair you don't have to use their services with BB you are stuck with BBM BIS and BES more than I'm stuck to anything Google. Had Droid 4 years and no virus's yet. The only way I have known about is if you download a faulty app or an app off a 3rd party app store or an unsigned apk. Same thing can happen to BB, you can install an app with too many permissions and there goes your email account. YOu dont need an anti-malware scanner if you don't download apps you really don't need for work. If you are using your phone to look at porn or get 'cute' ring-tones that's a different issue.

WP7 looks awesome but lack of apps and the newness of it makes me unwary. Do we really want to a windows computer in our pocket? or do we want an appliance that does exactly what you tell it to do?

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Thanks for the comment Morgan Rowse.

My curve does struggle from time and I do actually want to "test drive" another android long term just to update my ideas, but then I have to ask myself, "Why?" My curve, although outdate is still performing well. I get emails fast, texting and typing is equally good, and I can make calls quickly and easily without hassle. Maybe I should try a 'new' BB and compare that.

I do know about Swype and I'm not confident in it. I've had it on my old android. It may be fast for short text messaged but not 1-2k papers. Autotext on BB is very fast and comfortable. I do agree that auto-correct via Swype may be "good enough" for most casual work, but for me, I'd rather have 100% accuracy.

BBM is an excellent communications tool, not just a social network. Plus BBM is secure which IS a feature businesses look for. I know BBM isn't catered towards businesses but the platform itself is secure. BB7 was just approved for official US government use.

I'm familiar with the faster Android phones but those things don't impress me that much. You would have to be a loyal follower to spot the difference between the Galaxy S2, Nexus S, HTC One X,V,S, ect. Google services integrate well on Android but sometimes, I don't want to be forced to use google in order to have that perfect android experience. Plus with all the news about Android malware, the coolness of a "Linux OS" on the phone is turning into "Windows XP-Vista". I don't want to have to download spyware/malware/virus scanners or worry about every app stealing my data. It's just a non-issue on BB.

If you think HTC sense is a good UI, then you need to try WP7. IMO, they have the best UI in smartphones today. So, no, I'm not completely bias towards BB. I just tell it like I see it.

Morgan Rowse

7 years ago

I think its about time you try a 'new' android and you might not think it, but I've seen how the curve lags and struggles to even load a picture( that annoying little clock rotating endlessly. ) Sure 'you' may find it hard to share a file on android but its literally a one-tap process from your gallery or chosen file browser. I don't see your problem with 3rd party apps when its sounds like you had multiple file browsers installed. hey , that's up to you, but there is a check box to set the standard one. Also typing on android has been proven to be the fastest on any platform: Google: Swype. I'm sure you missed your physical keyboard and it does feel more comfortable, i just find it less of an effort to type up something on my droid and the autocorrect is good enough to be relied on. You say it is a business phone but all I see is teenagers with a cheap phone that has great social networking (BBM). I never wait for anything to load on my droid and that comes with the price. By the way I own a HTC Desire. In my opinion best UI and best keyboard on any droid or third party app I have tried.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Ray,

Android have gotten better but not enough to sway me. LG makes quality phones but Samsung phones always have little issues with them. Phone calls, internet, navigation, social media are not exclusive to Android. iOS and yes, BB, does it too. There's always the comparison of the best android phones to entry level BB and that's unfair. There's lots of Android phone with problems. Look at the Samsung Intercept or Moto Triumph. Android is not secure, at least not enough for the US gov. BB7 recently got the security certification for government use and this track record will most likely continue with BB10. Security IS a feature on communication devices. Not so much on toys.

Ray

7 years ago

I was a HUGE blackberry fan for years and made the jump to Android. Recently I lost my Android phone that I had for a year and have been using a blackberry once again. I couldn't be more dissappointed! Blackberry was king before and I respect your reasons behind your switch back but there is no comparison. For me, everything is so much better on Android and its a sad thought that if RIM doesn't get there act together soon, they'll be a thing of the past. You made the reference of Android being a toy and BB being a phone. Android is not only a phone but a staple in all types of communication and media. From phone calls, to internet, navigation, social media, etc makes BB look like a plastic paper weight or should I say, they're the toy. BB has given me some great years and have always stood by them and this by no means is me bashing them at all but there's no denying that Android now is a better product hands down.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

The 8520 is a VERY old model and you may want to upgrade sooner than you think. I have the 8530 and will be upgrading very soon. If you want to develop for the platform, RIM will release the NDK soon. Meanwhile you can develop with AIR and the SDK. Unfortunately, Java is dropped from the PlayBook/BB10. There are still many niche that needs to be filled and the more app developers, the better.

The potential for $$$ is there despite the negative press RIM has been getting.

alejo

7 years ago

Yes, when I said radio, was FM radio (by the air). Well I´m a user BB now, I ´ve my first BB, an 8520 model (I want the next model now LOL.)

I like the duration of the battery and the simple menu. Simple shorcuts for do simple things, call, sms, contacts, etc.

Thanks for this article again, was very useful for choice my new smartphone.

Which the next step?

Start with Java for develop for it? Earn money for the next model, may be 9300...

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Joe Michaels,

Thanks for the comment. I had a similar experience when I had Android. When I first got my phone, I downloaded and installed as many apps as I could find. After a few months, my application list grew until it was a big clutter. I decided to do some spring cleaning and get rid of all the apps I didn't need. Most of them were novelty and games anyways. After everything was said and done, I had only a handful of apps left. Turns out, I didn't need too many apps. Most of them were tools to waste my time.

You're right. A phone should be a communicator first. Thanks for the comment.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Thanks for the the comment alejo!

I also use linux everday(Kubuntu) and I am a faithful Linux supporter. The problems with Android is it is doesn't really adopt the same philosophies as the Linux it was built on so it's pretty much a Google product.

What do you mean BB have no radio? It has Pandora for sure. I think it has slacker too, not sure. Do you mean FM radio?

Joe Michaels

7 years ago

Well, I should admit that I am no phone expert and had been using a Nokia E66 with emoze mail for a while. A few months back I wanted to upgrade and I had to decide between BB and Droid. I was kinda leaning towards Samsung, but an overheard conversation at an airport lounge settled it. Two men were having a rather "energetic" discussion on pros and cons of Droid. The pro-droid person kept repeating about apps, till his friend asked "Dude how many applications you are gonna need anyway and of all those you have installed , how many do you use?" And the minutes silence from the pro-droid guy , gave the answer , though he continued to argue. I am never quite far from my laptop and for all the fancy things I would use it. My phone is my communicator and I should say my Bold does that seamlessly. And yes there just enough apps available on blackberry to keep you occupied.

alejo

7 years ago

Excellent article !

I had a Samsung Y Pro, was a pain in the eggs ! I buyied it for start programming in Android, but was a bad choice the phone, only deception with this. (with android 2.3 Ginger..)

I´ll continue developing for the web (PHP and and now some Python), and may be I´ll try some new for BB OS.

In my work I use GNU/Linux (Debian) every day, for that I `ve tried to enter in Android Os, but wasn`t good.

This week I`ll get a BB 9300. Thanks for this article, it open my mind about BB and Android OS, all my feelings are now in this smartphone.

The only bad is BB have no radio, I´ll miss it.

Alejo

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Ben, 2 days is actually pretty good in terms of smart phones. Usually, people are happy if their smart phones can last 1 full day with heavy usage.

Faadii, don't confuse popularity with being the best. If I lived my life like that, I'd be listening to Justin Bieber and watching Jersey Shore. Thanks for the comment.

faadil farick

7 years ago

Any way Android is the best mobile os, it already covers over 60% from mobile os's with its newest face unlock app:-P in near future android wil cath the whole world of mobile os and it wil be the end of BB & iMac,,,,,,

Ben

7 years ago

cool Thanks,

After what you said set's all set, I'll go for the Bold.

I would like a long life battery because my phone lasts only 2 days and I hardly use it and got wifi off, brightness at the lowest, gps and auto refresh off. Apps decide to open in the background by themselves, I've got a task killer, I kill the apps then 5 to 10 mins later they open again.

the touchscreen doesn't bother me. I'll be on a 2 year contract, so I would like the best, if I can get it!

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

if you feel you won't upgrade in a long time, get the Bold. It's a much nicer phone than the Curve. The Bold also has a bigger battery and if you are looking for an extended battery, the Bold's battery is designed in a way that it is "long" and it takes up most of the back. The Curve's battery is very small. Having said that, battery life on new BB devices have taken a hit. This is probably due to the new OS, processors, and introduction of touch screen.

The Bold has a nicer screen. It has around 284-286 dpi depending on what source you're looking at. That's close to Apples "retina" display which is 326. Also, I do not think the curve has a touch screen if that's important to you. The Bold is a work horse aim at BB users who want the best. The Curve is cheaper aimed at the economical market or first time users. Having own an old Curve, I've always had Bold envy. Unlike the Android phones where Benchmark phones change every week, the Bold will remain the best BB for a while. Hope this helps Ben!

Ben

7 years ago

thank set's all set,

I'm going to a phone store first to try it out, if I can use it. I've never used one if i get one (depends what type on the upgrade option) I torn between Bold or Curve

Any feedback will be great

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Ben,

If those are the only things you must have, then BB will be fine. I can relate to your story. When I was using android, then only reliable email was the ones that was linked to my gmail. Now that I maintain a website and use other mail servers, I'm very happy of he email performance of my BB.

Ben, you may be downplaying BB because lots of the things you mentioned can be done on featured phones minus the appointments/calender. Thanks for your comment!

Ben

7 years ago

Hi, I'm an android user, upgrading in 4 months and thinking of getting BB, i only features I use on my phone is twitter (rarely the net), calender and reminders. I don't play games, videos, sometimes use the camera. Is it worth it switching to BB?

I know that 1 time i emailed a guy and 2 minutes later I phoned him to tell him (because he was very busy) he said he received it he had a BB

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Chris, you are comparing a Pearl to an Xperia Mini. Thanks for the comment. BRB. I'm off to race a Nissan GTR with my Corolla.

Chris

7 years ago

You are speaking out of your arse mate, i have an xperia mini pro, my wife has a blackberry pearl, my phone has hers licked, better camera, better dialling, better everything, she is really very jealous of my new phone, and personally i don't know why i didn't get it earlier i'd had my old phone for over 3 years,K800i which is also better than her pearl, but i have now changed....

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Thank you Andre. And your English grammar is fine. I would love to write that article once I update my phone sometime this year. I am a big fan of customization in my electronics too, it's just that customization brings along other problems like themes breaking, design issues, and stability. When I was on Android, I did play around with flashing custom ROMs and it was fun but at the end of the day, I didn't feel like it was worth my effort.

I used to be an entry level mechanic and one of the most repeated mantras in the industry is "use the right tool for the job." It's nice that to have a multi-tool like a smartphone, but I could never imagine myself doing anything truly productive with it. For mobile browsing, I have my tablet, word processing or image editing, I have my computer. I suppose I can get emails and make calls with my android but BlackBerry already does that better. To me it's personal preference and I might take your advice and write that article in the future. Thanks again for the comment.

Andre

7 years ago

Good to know your opinion,

First thing, sorry for my English :)

I am an inverse person of you.

You were right, Blackberry is simple. That's why Blackberry still have its huge audiences in my country. But the answer of "why I leave Blackberry?" is because that reason too. Blackberry is simple. It has straight forward procedures to do daily communication. And that condition doesn't meet my needs as a power user. I need lots more customizable features which can easily found in Android.

So what I meant is nothing better between Blackberry and Android. They have their own pros and cons, which Android cons have already be mentioned above in your editorial. The one which can meet our needs is the better. And it relatively different for each person.

If you like, you can write more article about "comparison between Blackberry and Android" which mentions pros and cons between both of them. It seems to be more fair for your audiences here. Have a good day.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Steve,

I'm sorry you feel that way but the title of my article is simply "Why I Switched From Android to BlackBerry" not "Why YOU Should Switch..." or something along those absolutes. I agree that this article is editorial and 100% my opinion. I'm not denying that or trying to fool anyone.

I think your analogy is unfair. I said it best near the end. "Android feels like a computer trying to be a phone while BlackBerry is a phone trying to be like a computer."

I do admit that this post is a bit outdated as being a year old is ancient in terms of tech but having touched up on Android in stores, I have no reason to pick it up again. My archaic BlackBerry is still reliable and strong. I have a tablet that I use for browsing and even in the tablet market, it feels like android is lacking in terms of UI.

I don't game much at my age but you're right that there are middle-aged people who enjoy playing games and there's nothing wrong with that. I have no issue with that. For me, the lack of games is a non-issue for me and I don't mean to come off as rude.

Steve

7 years ago

You have quiet a high opnion of blackberries when most of what you said is entirely personal and has nothing to do with Android.

Calling Android a toy and Blackberry a phone is like calling a computer a toy and a type writer a computer. Blackberry is no more a phone then Android. And there isn't a single thing you can possible say that would argue that. The ability to do shortcuts might be easier on certain devices, but they can both call. And that's ALL A PHONE DOES.

Saying Applications/Games are for children, well that's just down right rude. I know more 40 year olds that play games then 20 year olds.

Anyways very few pieces of your argument are valid, but those pieces are 100% personal and have no meaning. But overall nice post.

alex

7 years ago

depends on what your using it for realistically. If you dont play games or dont watch video's, bb is simply the way to go.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Matt,

You are prime example why I moderate comments. I'm all for free speech but please refrain from personal attacks and posts that add nothing to the discussion. I'll leave your comment up as an example.

Fs,

You may be right on the money. I've read numerous articles that Apple's "Fad" is dying soon. Not to mention the sea of new androids coming out. You can easily get lost in the hype and honestly, they're pretty much all the same. Galaxy SII, Nexus S, Evo whatever. I don't mean to offend android users and I suppose you can say the same for BB's but flagship phone for BB don't come out ever other week like Android.

Fs

7 years ago

I agree with you hands down. I have been using a blackberry since 2007. Right from BB 8820, 8900, 9300, 9700 and finally 9900. I decided to get the Samsung Galaxy SII LTE prior to purchasing my BB 9900. Honestly, the phone has amazing applications and not to mention the amazing camera but my love for it died soon. The touchscreen is brutal, after using a qwerty keypad all these years I don't think I can go to a touchscreen phone. I have the iPod and the iPad 2, which I use to plays games and other media applications. But if your looking for a real smartphone quit searching -blackberry is as good as it gets. iPhone and Androids are mere toys - I strongly feel their fad will die soon.

arvind rajpoot

7 years ago

Android phone is the best me powerfull apps

matt

7 years ago

WOW YOU ARE AN IDIOT

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

xbbuser,

your comment didn't get deleted. They are held for approval because this page gets its fair share of spam. You are completely right with the new BB. Their batteries are disappointing. I guess that's the price you pay when you try to cater to all the kids that want touch screens. Oh well, I guess even RIM has to conform somehow. I'm looking to get a new BB but I am hoping Seidio puts out an extended battery for the new line soon.

Travis, I know how you feel. A friend is getting the iPhone and I will miss the BBM connection but that's how things work sometimes. I am still hanging on to my BB. Gotta go with what I like over what they like.

Darius, You are right when you say Google and Apple are getting preferential treatments. Especially in the media. Lots of tech blogs tend to cater towards Android and Apple but RIM and Microsoft seems to be the black sheep. I wonder why. Make that money!

Darius

7 years ago

I was a blackberry user for a few years. I switched to Android for 2 months. The experience was painful. I do like Google but the Android is work in progress. For every little task I had to download something then configure it to work with the rest. Cutting and pasting from a text editor -which I had to download and install- was a huge task. Selecting text with touch screen is a challenge. Pasting it into txt or email editor was another hurdle. The menu system is inconsistent and everytime you want to search something in the phone or your own docs you somehow end up with Google search. To make it short if Microsoft put people through this everyone would be screaming. Google and Apple are somehow holly entities and no matter what they come up with people just follow. I am back to Blackberry and will not take that chance again. Long live the buttons. Blackberry is my tool for making money. Android devices are indeed toys and if you are into video watching, intensive facebooking or an NFL buff you would love them.

travis j.

7 years ago

i've gone through the same problem repeatedly. i've had nextel before because it was easy to use and push-to-talk was very convenient for work and social reasons (my friends had it on boost). i've had the blackberry, and texting, emailing was amazing. after my company switched to verizon i had to choose between android and a curve, and as android was gatting trendy and people approved it, i decided to give it a try. BIG MISTAKE. the droid x was amazing, but it felt like it was aiming for social networking lovers. i also do that a lot, but work and functionality were my priorities. blackberry was getting past and none of my co-workers and friends had it anymore, so when it came out i've bought an iphone 4. i love iphone, feels way better than an android phone, and the software is stable enough to get my work done easy. i'm keeping it, but what i miss most is a blackberry keyboard, made typing a lot easier. as i'm used to touchscreen right now, i'll definitely switch back if my co-workers and friends come back to blackberry and get a torch.

He said he only can have 1day full if not activate bis.poor and at my college just bb user who often charging battery in classroom.

Thullraven

7 years ago

I own a BB Torch 2 9810, a Galaxy Tab, and an iPod Touch 4th Gen, so I have experience with the big three OSs. They all have their good and bad points. I was going to switch to an Android because BB has an anemic app selection. I know the majority say that Android is faster and has a better browsing experience. I can tell you that it does regarding flash, but BB OS 7 can hang with the best Androids and IOS. Battery life on my 9810 isn't near older BB models, but is still better than most, if not all, Androids. My buddy has an Evo and always tells me he wished he had my battery life. I use my Torch for web surfing, emails, and Facebook. I watch videos from time to time and have a good experience when doing so. I have on occasion used it business wise reading pdfs and whatever. It excels as a messaging device. The lack of apps are it's bad spot. Outside of my old RAZR2, this is the best "phone" I have owned. It has good call quality and a strong antenna. Not to slam Android, which is great, too. It is very open source and customizable, and great with apps and surfing. But I like my BB as my phone and my iTouch for apps and games.

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

barardimetz,

I have sent you a message.

bacardimetz

7 years agofrom Palma de Mallorca

Hi Set's All Set,

I would also like to have the link to keep following you on your website about technology & gadgets, if U don't mind...these subjects always interest me. Thanks!

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Pierre,

I am building a website focused on technology and gadgets. I won't post it here because I think it's a bit sleezy to shamelessly self-promote. PM me if you want the link. Yes, I would love to get the new bold and I hope seidio makes an extended battery for them like the previous generations. My contract with Sprint ends in a few months and I'll see what to do then.

Pierre Ness

7 years ago

And what sort of website are you running?

Pierre Ness

7 years ago

You could always upgrade to the new bold ;)

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Pierre,

You're right that the new curve's batteries are quite small. Smaller than the original if I'm not mistaken. I am a bit disappointed by this as I plan to upgrade very soon.

As far as money. I can't really say because I don't know the exact amount but my entire account has made me some residual income. Enough to keep coming back and moderating comments. I am done on hubpages though as I continue to work on my own site. :) If you have any specific questions about that, PM me.

Pierre Ness

7 years ago

This stuff about great battery life on bb is now outdated, the new curves and bolds run on smaller batteries. I have the new curve and I can vouch for this fact. But it is a good article anyway, how much money have you made from this hub page, you've had tonnes of commenters :P?

Mr. Popat

7 years ago

I Haven't seen a fool like you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Android is Future rest are PAST!!!

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Thanks yash2012,

I wouldn't call this post "truth" but I'm grateful that my experience helped you out.

yash2012

7 years ago

hello guys,

Its been more than a year now, i am using HTC Wildfire (android based fone),it gives u good quality music,videos,apps etc..but it lags a lot,poor battery life,no fixed app for chatting,for protecting the battery we hav to download 4-5 apps which according to me is annoying.

Even im gonna buy a bb and would like 2 thank Set's All Set for highlighting the truth about both da fones(blackberry n Android)..

Yash from India..

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Thanks for the comment Efe. Most of my readers are from Nigeria and I'm sure they can relate to your experiences.

Efe

7 years ago

first of all, the first artcle was posted a loooooong time ago and we all know that the Android has come a long way. Every BlackBerry user i know in Nigeria complains about one thing: freezing! BBs hang?freeze like no mans business; even the bold 5! i use an Android and let me just say that the complaints i see here are really old news.

Regarding battery life, i mean, come on! The phones do so much already and any idiot should know that battery life depends on usage. In Nigeria where bbm madness has no equal, my BB using friends all have at least 2 batteries... i met someone who uses 3... and here you are talkin about battery life...?! pleeeeeeaaaaaaaassse!

i've seen messed up androids and most of them are first generation androids. They develop every day at alarming speed.

It all boils down to personal choice but from what i know, i take an Android... even Symbian over even BB bold 5 cos i know that even that one freezes like mad!

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

I say go for it. Android should be tried at least once. If you like it, great. If not, you can always go back or try iOS or Windows Phone Mobile.

Marcia

7 years ago

Oh boy am I confused. I have been on the BB Bold since September however have had continuous issues with the virtual screen locking so am about to switch to the Photon 4G. I am not a Droid user nor iPhone user and have loved my BB but liked the touch screen idea so I thought the Bold would be the perfect solution. Now I'm about to switch and am scared of the ramifications. Any last thoughts?

dazz

7 years ago

I tend to switch between my android galaxy s and my blackberry torch 9800. I do like my both phones and both have there pro's and cons. If only blackberry acted as a wifi hotspot so I could tether my laptop without having to run cables then I would class it as an all round business phone. I believe wireless connectivity should be a must on all business phones.

I had heard a rumor a while ago that blackberry were going to offer it but obviously that was a rumor because that was some time ago.

Another thing I have found with the latest blackberry's is that they are offering a bigger screen and more powerful processor but unfortunately they are rolling back the size of the battery and there have been many reports of battery life between charges has been reduced quite significantly. I hope Blackberry rectify that with the next batch of smart phones because battery life is one of the main reasons I use blackberry's and of course I use them for email.

Cheers

Darren

Billy

7 years ago

I've used Blackberry for 8 years now, switching from a Motorola Q. When I switched, the salesperson said "Well, since you are used to a "Windows" phone, you are going to hate Blackberry for a few weeks, but try and stay with it and you may just like it." He was WRONG. I LOVED the Blackberry from the moment I started using it. It just made sense to me. Like I had designed it and written the programming. It GLIDED compared to the clunky Motorola Q operating system of the day.

It was easy for me to adapt to the seamless integration of all emails and texts and eventually BBM showing up in my inbox. Later, when Facebook, Linked in, and other social apps became available, Blackberry integrated these with their OS 6. I upgraded to that via the 9780 when it first came out and still use that phone today (December of 2011). Now the 9900 is out with OS 7 and I'll probably upgrade soon.

About three months ago I thought I'd "dabble" with Android to see what the buzz was all about. I got a Virgin Mobile el-cheapo plan pay as you go and the Optimus V. I dove into this extensively to compare the two platforms.

Three months later, the clear winner to me is still Black

Berry.

The Android is basically a small tablet with a phone dialer integrated.

The BlackBerry is a Smart PDA with a Phone as the Primary application. The platform for BlackBerry seems to be one of fluid communication surrounded by supporting applications.

The platform for Android seems to be one of random applications working as best as they can together to create a smart phone - and you can email, phone, or IM as part of this integration.

So, my bottom line is, if I were retired, or just wanted a phone to play with, I'd get an android.

If I were a business professional and wanted to handle my time and my communications with the world, I'd get a BlackBerry.

I'll not compare input as my BBerry has keys and my Android happens to have touch screen only. Some Androids have keys, so let's not go there.

Barring that, you have the operating systems, and the platforms they were designed on and the strengths of each. IMO, business professionals are crazy not to consider a Blackberry.

jcjuatco

7 years ago

i'm going to BB now!

Animal

7 years ago

What is lacking in the argument is the NEED for which you need a particular device. The needs of the consumers are all different, and both Android and BlackBerry can meet those needs, depending on what they are. This is not a one-size-fits-all where one can definitively say that BlackBerry is better than Android, or vice versa. This is like me telling you that buying a house is always better than renting, or leasing a car is better than buying. Both sides have advantages and disadvantages, but it is the need of the user that should determine which phone to use.

Like you mentioned, BlackBerry is great with email, meeting invitations, and all other business capabilities. Here is the problem: most people do not buy phones to meet their business needs. In a business sense, yes, many companies issue BlackBerrys to their employees for this very purpose: it gets the job done. If you want to send an email to your CEO, your choice of preference should be the BlackBerry over the Droid (or even the iPhone). It's simple, uncluttered, and gets you to your business quickly. Personally, when the clock hits 5, I don't even want to think about work. Any emails I receive after 5 can wait until the next day. The reason I can purchasing a phone is for my own personal needs. That being the case, Android beats BlackBerry hands down. The iPhone beats BlackBerry hands down for the same reason.

RIM has lost a majority of its market share because, quite frankly, it cannot keep up with Android or Apple. Why? Most sales from mobile devices are used for personal reasons, and as such, BlackBerry sales decline.

In fact, some companies have even adopted the use of iPhones for their employees, cutting into the share that BlackBerry had in the corporate world. According to ComScore, as of the fall of 2011, RIM only has a 19.7% market share as compared to Apple's 27.3% and Android's 43.7%.

In short, BlackBerry is best used for work. If you don't want to take your work home with you, go with Apple or Android.

Ever

7 years ago

I got the Blackberry 9780 for work and the Samsung Galaxy Nexus for my personal use.

So far the BB is the worst phone I ever had. Is like going back in time and use an old phone, slow, boring and lack of so much compare to today's top smartphone.

This is my recommendation.

Android 4.0 then WM7.5 then IOS5 then BB

Dedicated to Blackberry

7 years ago

This article is SO true. Ive been a Blackberry user for the past year & its so reliable. Even though I still have the 8520. Its still so much better than any android ive used. As of right now im using my moms crappy android and it makes my blackberry seem like royalty. Android is so slow, I tried what you said. I pressed the call button on both phones and the androids dialer came up years later. -____-.

Blackberry is the only phone for me and I dont think its boring im in high school & 75% of my school has a blackberry.

Brian

7 years ago

OK, I just cannot believe the Android cannot forward email to a group and I cannot believe I missed how to do it if it was that easy. So, I rechecked my wife's Photon (one of the latest and greatest phones). The GMail app, which was pre-installed, will not forward to a group. K9, a free email app, will not forward to a group (I guess you get what you pay for). I tried the 'email' app that came with the phone (I had not tried this one before) -- it came up with the gmail account. And, guess what?! It can forward to a group!! Is that the email app you are using?

Now I need to find out if the 'email' app will handle more than one account.

I made some head way on the calendar: you can delete all the phone's calendar events by going to Manage Apps and clearing data for the Calendar app and the Calendar Storage app. Not ideal -- it removes everything from the calendar. But, that's what I wanted (this time) -- I don't need to delete 800 events one at a time.

Brian

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Brian, I don't use calender too often so I can't comment on it but I do forward lots of emails. I just never forwarded to a group until now. It was very easy to make. You simply go to contacts, then hit menu, New Group. Name your groups and add members. That's it! Now when you have an email you want to forward, on the "To:" field, just type the group's name and it should pop up! I feel your pain with these little paper cuts. Android is fun to mess around with but I don't feel like I could do any production work on it without going crazy either. I share your frustration and thanks for sharing your experience.

Brian

7 years ago

First, let me state I love my Samsung Epic phone (I have it rooted and running a custom ROM, Android version 2.2.1). I've had this phone for 1 1/2 years and still love it.

My wife is a BB user (she had a Tour) and is a heavy Palm user. She wanted to 'upgrade' to an Android phone. We wanted to move her contacts and calendar events from the Palm to new android phone. We got a Motorola Photon for her.

I move her old contacts into the new phone -- no problems here; her old BB was sync'ing to google. All the contacts moved to the new phone within seconds of setting up her Google login on the phone.

She used it for a week or so to get used to the new phone's UI.

This is when I found out Android phones are toys. My wife is in my son's school's PTO and has a contact group of PTO members. So, one day she asks me how to forward a email to the PTO group. I say, "I never needed to that before, but it should be easy." Well, I soon discover you cannot do this! WHAT!? This is a basic function of a email program! The contact list the email program shows you does not let you select contact groups, just individual contact names. I tried this with the built-in email app and the K9 app, on my phone and the Photon -- they are all the same: no group contact selection possible.

At first, I could not believe it; I thought I must be missing something. After, a google search, sure enough, this is android OS limitation that many people have complained about. I only tried this on Android 2.2 and 2.3 -- maybe newer versions have this fixed.

Ok, there are kludges to get around the group contact issue but they are not pretty. But, then came the google calendar nightmare...

I found a program that could extract Palm calendar events and convert them to a iCalendar file format. Google's calendar web interface will import these. So, I try a test and extract the last two years of the Palm's events and upload them to Google. Great, it works and my wife's Photon sync'ed the new events within seconds. That was a test; I, now, wanted to delete the Google calendar events and re-upload the Palm's events but with a different time range and filter out some of the events. This is when the nightmare began:

I delete all events in the calendar via Google's web interface. I check my wife's phone -- the calendar events are still there. I wait... they are still there. I manually force a sync on the phone... they are still there! I do a Google search about this: AAGGHH its another known issue with android!! Many people have had this problem and the only solution seems to be manually delete each calendar event on the phone. I had just put about 800 events into the phone!!! It will take forever to delete them!!

So, for my wife, android it a complete FAIL! We will be taking the Photon back and get her a new BB.

But, for me I still love my Epic but I play games, surf the web, do simple email reading, and texting, only. Its a toy for me and its great but now I know if I need to do real work with it, I'll would be throwing it across the room in frustration!

(BTW: I assume, sometime in the future, the Android OS and its apps will mature and become more usable. My wife just can't wait that long.)

My two cents, Brian

AUTHOR

Set's All Set

7 years agofrom New England

Eric,

I'm glad business owners are posting here. I can see why, for business, you ABSOLUTELY NEED reliability. A dropped call, delayed email, or dead phone can literally cost your company $$$.

@ 9900 user,

Thanks for the kind words. Although I am not one of the lucky few with the new 9900/9300 Bold's I'm glad this post is still relevant to your experience. It's just one of those things when you read about it, you think, "Okay, yea...toy... work... play...." but when you get one and experience it first hand, it's like, "Ohh man! It's true!"

QNX for phones will be an evolutionary step rather than revolutionary. RIM have been known to take their time releasing things. I suppose they'd rather get it done right. Anyways, if you had a chance to look at the BlackBerry PlayBook, that's what QNX is. And yes, I can't wait either!

9900 user :)

7 years ago

hello, i would just like to share that i was an iphone user before but i switched to nokia n97 mini because i missed the physical keyboard, and when the apps of droid became famous i switched to sony ericsson xperia mini, but the battery life was awful, on standby (and wifi) it can only run 6 hours max. after the android, i tried to not get a phone until i research enough so i wont be changing phones as much as before. i wanted a phone with physical keyboard but if it has both, touch and physical that would be better. i also needed a phone where push emails a breeze, so after months without a phone, i decided to purchase from the new blackberry line up--- and now i've been a proud owner of the blackberry bold 9900, and my god! is this phone a godsend! the only thing i dont like about it is the camera, and ofcourse rim not having enough "cool" apps, buts i do have an ipad2 so i just play using that, and work using blackberry! your review is spot on! droid and apples are toys, blackberrys made for work! emailing, attaching files, sending pics, bbming, and social networking (ie twitter and fb) are flawless! :) cant wait for the qnx phones though! ive been hearing good stuff about it!

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